Dr. David Manoa

Wildlife biologist, Researcher, Innovator and M & E expert. Passionate about working with communities on evidence-based projects.

[Born Free Foundation Kenya @BornFreeKenya]

Join Our Team as the Meru Landscape Manager!

Are you a passionate conservation leader with skills to manage complex programmes that foster coexistence between wildlife and communities? If so, we want YOU!

We are looking for a strong leader with excellent interpersonal and technical skills, high integrity, and the ability to supervise teams, manage performance, and ensure compliance with donor and government regulations.

If you are an organised and resourceful professional ready to make a difference, visit the BrighterMonday website https://t.co/eotWMeZqPM or scan the QR code.

Applications will close on Friday 19th June, 2026.

[Wildlife Research & Training Institute @WRTIKenya]

Following recommendations from the National Wildlife Census (2024–2025) Report on enhancing bushmeat monitoring and surveillance across the country, the Institute yesterday hosted a consultative meeting on bushmeat research and monitoring, bringing together conservation organizations, researchers, and stakeholders to discuss practical approaches towards addressing bushmeat trade and wildlife exploitation.

Officially opening the meeting, the Deputy Director for Research, Dr. David Ndereh, highlighted the importance of research-driven interventions, strong partnerships, and coordinated monitoring systems in responding to the growing threat posed by illegal bushmeat activities.

Discussions during the consultative forum focused on existing gaps in monitoring and enforcement, fragmented research efforts, and the socio-economic drivers of bushmeat trade, including poverty and food insecurity.

Participants also explored possible interventions such as strengthening community awareness, improving surveillance and market monitoring, promoting alternative livelihoods, and enhancing institutional collaboration.

The meeting is expected to contribute towards the development of a coordinated national bushmeat monitoring framework that will strengthen data sharing, guide decision-making, and support collaborative conservation efforts aimed at protecting Kenya’s wildlife heritage.

The workshop brought together representatives from the Zoological Society of London (ZSL), African Wildlife Foundation (AWF), International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), Giraffe Conservation Foundation (GCF), Born Free Foundation, and the University of Nairobi, among other conservation partners.

[Born Free Foundation Kenya @BornFreeKenya]

At the Footsteps to Freedom Ball, we shared our film "What Will You Tell Your Children?"

Help us change the story. Donate to our Protect the Pride #EarthRaise appeal before 29 April & your gift will be DOUBLED to protect lions in Meru, Kenya.

Donate 👉 https://t.co/O4U5K5psmT

[Born Free Foundation Kenya @BornFreeKenya]

We are excited to have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with @NatcomUnescoKe. This powerful alliance unites our conservation expertise with their national mandate to protect two critical landscapes: Amboseli Biosphere Reserve & Meru.

Through this partnership, we hope to transform education, advance research, and build community resilience for a sustainable future! 💚

👉 Read more: https://t.co/1B4e88xx1D

[Wildlife Research & Training Institute @WRTIKenya]

With field data collection successfully concluded, the Institute has entered a critical stage in the Second National Wildlife Census (2024–2025) exercise.

In collaboration with the State Department for Wildlife, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), the Directorate of Resource Surveys and Remote Sensing (DRSRS), and other conservation partners, the Institute has commenced the process of compiling the Second National Wildlife Census 2024/2025 Report.

This phase will involve data analysis, development of species distribution maps, and preparation of the final report, which will also integrate findings from independent studies on key species.

Speaking today during the official opening, Director Dr. Patrick Omondi expressed his appreciation to all those who have played a role in this vital national exercise, which started last year in June.

“From the pilots, ground crew, data crew, to our Front Seat Observers, Rear Seat Observers (RSO), your dedication and professionalism have been the driving force behind the success of this census.
I also thank all our partners and the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife under the leadership of Cabinet Secretary Hon Rebecca Miano and Principal Secretary Silvia Museiya, ” he noted.

He said that the report, expected to be released next month, will not only present the current status of wildlife populations but also provide a historical perspective of wildlife trends in Kenya and paint a clear picture of the status of endangered and threatened species, enabling targeted interventions and resource allocation.

“This long-term outlook will be invaluable in helping policy makers, conservation agencies, and communities understand population changes over time and implement proactive measures,” he said.

He added that the Second National Wildlife Census 2024/2025 Report will integrate wildlife data from multiple agencies, an approach that will ensure that the report is comprehensive, scientifically rigorous, and aligned with the government’s BETA agenda.

“Ultimately, this report will be a strategic tool that empowers government, conservancies, and community-based organizations to align their interventions with real-time, credible data. This evidence-based approach is central to ensuring that wildlife and people continue to coexist in harmony, while securing Kenya’s natural heritage for generations to come,” he concluded.

Other partners involved are Save the Elephants, Born Free Foundation, Kenya Institute of Primate Research, Gravy Zebra Trust and National Museums of Kenya.

[Wildlife Research & Training Institute @WRTIKenya]

The wait is over! Starting tomorrow, our team of researchers comprising of Rear and Front-Seat Observers (RSO & FSO) and pilots will take to the skies for the highly anticipated Tsavo ecosystem aerial total census.

This vital exercise will provide crucial data on elephant populations, other wildlife species, and habitat conditions across Tsavo, and surrounding areas.

With every flight, we get closer to understanding the health of this iconic ecosystem, guiding conservation efforts to protect our wildlife for generations to come.

Stay tuned for live updates, stunning aerial footage, and behind-the-scenes insights!

#Count2Conserve

[Dr. David Manoa @david_manoa]

Kawasaki taxi driver rearrested on suspicion of killing pigeon https://t.co/u3udb19GjH

[Dr. David Manoa @david_manoa]

Useful thoughts "Agroecology may provide some solutions".

Africa’s worsening food crisis – it’s time for an agricultural revolution https://t.co/xLMQ6uzzEw via @TC_Africa

[Wildlife Research & Training Institute @WRTIKenya]

The Wildlife Research and Training Institute (WRTI) has successfully completed the Laikipia-Isiolo-Samburu-Marsabit-Meru landscape wildlife census, covering a total of 60,928 Square Kilometers, marking 90 per cent coverage of the area. The remaining portion will be covered today.

The 12-day exercise employed advanced total aerial survey techniques to gather comprehensive on wildlife population, distribution within the expansive landscape, habitats, and the overall health of the landscape.  

Speaking yesterday during the closing debrief, WRTIKenya Director Dr. Patrick Omondi praised the concerted efforts of the pilots, Rear and Front-Seat Observers (RSO & FSO ), data crew, and Geographic Information System (GIS) specialists, who ensured the exercise ran smoothly over the past two weeks.

"This census monitored species populations over time and space, providing essential data for informed conservation efforts. The meticulous coordination between our pilots who navigated challenging terrains, Rear and Front-Seat Observers (RSO & FSO), who observed and recorded vital information, the data crew who ensured accuracy, and GIS experts who turned data into actionable insights was exemplary. Their dedication is a true reflection of our commitment to ensure we inform wildlife conservation.

Dr Omondi emphasized the importance of such initiatives, noting that "this landscape is not only home to iconic species like elephants, Grevy’s zebras, but also serves as a lifeline for countless communities and ecosystems. Accurate data is the foundation of effective conservation and sustainable management."

He thanked partners and stakeholders for their unwavering support, stating, "Partnerships are the cornerstone of impactful conservation. This exercise would not have been possible without the resources, expertise, and collaboration of our partners. Together, we are ensuring that Kenya’s wildlife thrives for generations to come."

“ I thank the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife under the leadership of Cabinet Secretary Hon @rebecca_miano, State Department for Wildlife under the leadership of @PSMuseiya, Tourism Promotion Fund for their financial support, KWS, Save The Elephants, Born Free Foundation, Loisaba Conservancy, WYSS Academy for Nature, Mpala Research, WWF Kenya, Department of Resource Survey and Remote Sensing (DRSRS) and all other partners,” he said. 

Dr. Omondi reiterated the Institute’s commitment to leveraging the census findings for actionable solutions. "We are not just counting wildlife; we are building a legacy of informed conservation. These efforts underscore our vision of a Kenya where humans and wildlife coexist harmoniously."

Save the Elephants CEO Frank Pope, congratulated the Institute and all the partners for ensuring the smooth coordination of the exercise.

"The success of this census is a stepping stone. It is now up to us to use these insights to strengthen conservation initiatives and protect our natural heritage. Let us continue this journey together."

Present in the meeting were representatives from the State Department for Wildlife, Kenya Wildlife Service, Save the Elephants, WWF-Kenya, Born Free Kenya, Directorate of Resource Surveys and Remote Sensing, Loisaba Conservancy, WYSS Academy for Nature.

A dedicated joint team is currently verifying and validating the collected data in preparation for analysis and report writing.

Stay tuned for more updates as the next scheduled census will be held next year in January.

#Count2conserve

[Dr. David Manoa @david_manoa]

Congratulations @OmondiPomondi for your reappointment as the Director/ CEO for @Wil

[Wildlife Research & Training Institute @WRTIKenya]

The Board of the Institute, Management, Staff, and Students of the Wildlife Research and Training Institute extend warm congratulations to our Director/CEO Dr Patrick Omondi on his reappointment for a second three-year term.

This is a testament to his visionary leadership, unwavering dedication, and outstanding contributions to the growth and success of the Institute.

Dr. Omondi has exemplified excellence in nurturing the growth of the Institute and steering it towards achieving its mandate of advancing wildlife research and training impacting not only our country but the global community.

We are grateful to Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, Hon. Rebecca Miano, EGH, for her confidence in Dr Omondi’s leadership and the continued support granted to the Institute assuring our continued growth. In particular with the alignment of the Institute’s mandate with BETA.

Together, we look forward to achieving even more transformative results that will reinforce our commitment to wildlife research and capacity building for a sustainable future.

[Wildlife Research & Training Institute @WRTIKenya]

Do you have a well-researched scientific paper on discoveries, innovations, technologies, and applications in wildlife conservation and sustainable utilization?

We are excited to announce that we are now accepting Abstracts for the 2nd International Wildlife Scientific Conference 2025 to be held on September 23-25, 2025 in Naivasha.

Submissions is opened from November 26th, 2024 and will close on March 22nd, 2025.

Notifications of acceptance of the Abstracts will be sent by June 25th, 2025.

The Abstracts (maximum 300 words) should include a title, author(s) details, background, objectives, methods, results, conclusions, and up to five keywords in an alphabetical order.

For more details, visit https://t.co/q3TlAg8bcV or email [email protected].

You can also call us on [phone].

Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this event.

[Wildlife Research & Training Institute @WRTIKenya]

The Institute which is coordinating the National Wildlife Census (2024-2025) in conjunction with @KWSKenya and other partners today received a donation of Sh2 million from the Born Free Foundation towards the pre-planning of the Laikipia-Samburu-Meru-Marsabit landscape census exercise.

Census in this landscape, which is a crucial region for diverse and unique wildlife populations, will be launched on November 18th and will be concluded on November 28th.
It will mark the commencement of the second phase of the National Wildlife Census (2024-2025) that is expected to be concluded in June 2025.

The National Wildlife Census (2024 -2025) has been financially supported by the Government through the Tourism Promotion Fund.

Born Free Foundation's Country Director, Timothy Oloo handed over the donation to @WRTIKenya Director Dr. Patrick Omondi, in a meeting highlighting the continued collaboration between the two organizations.

Dr. Omondi thanked the Born Free team for their support noting that the census is aimed at determining wildlife populations across the country in time and space by updating the wildlife numbers from the 2021 National Wildlife Census.

On his part, Timothy Oloo emphasized Born Free’s commitment to supporting the census and applauded the institute’s efforts in leading comprehensive and transparent data collection initiatives.

"Born Free is proud to contribute to this national effort, which is crucial for informing policies and conservation strategies," he stated.

The partnership between the Institute and the Born Free Foundation underscores a shared vision to fostering sustainable conservation practices through evidence-based decision-making processes.

Present at the meeting were Deputy Director of Research- Dr. David Ndeereh, Principal Research Scientists- Dr. Joseph Mukeka and Bernard Ngoru, Born Free Foundation Head of Conservation-Dr. David Manoa, Partnerships and Fundraising Manager -Caroline Njoki, Communications Manager- Ivy Malemba.

[Dr. David Manoa @david_manoa]

COP16 fizzles out as rich countries block global nature fund https://t.co/VJsv1sbyo5

[Will Travers @willtravers]

Positively disgusting! Yet some will claim that the taking of this innocent, little life is a price worth paying. You know who you are. Where’s your moral compass? Follow @BornFreeFDN and be on the right side of history. Very sad. RT Wx

[Born Free Foundation Kenya @BornFreeKenya]

We are participating in the 1st joint international scientific conference at @museumsofkenya this week under the theme "Utilization of biological resources for sustainable development, nature conservation and climate resilience. 🦁🦒🐘
Visit our booth to learn more!

[Dr. David Manoa @david_manoa]

Really exciting news @WRTIKenya . Glad that @BornFreeFDN supported the conference and was part of the team that wrote the proceeding.

[Wildlife Research & Training Institute @WRTIKenya]

Exciting News: We are pleased to announce that @WRTIKenya 1st Wildlife Scientific Conference 2023 proceedings is finally out.

Dive into a treasure trove of groundbreaking research,innovative conservation strategies, and inspiring stories from the front lines of wildlife science

[Kenya Wildlife Service @KWSKenya]

Good morning from the heart of Amboseli National Park, the home of the African Elephant! 🐘The beauty of the savannah is calling your name today.
Plan your visit this weekend and witness the magic of Kenya’s incredible wildlife.
Park entry charges for Kenya Citizens/residents are Kshs. 860 for adults and Kshs. 215 for children.
#TunzaMaliYako #ExploreExperienceConserve
📹Olga Levari Ercolano

[SLTP - Satpuda Landscape Tiger Partnership @SLTPtigers]

Celebrating 20 years of the Satpuda Landscape Tiger Partnership: Our partners share their thoughts about this initiative. This week in this series, we hear from Ruth DeFries from SLTP partner @Conserving_CI

[Dr. David Manoa @david_manoa]

@citizentvkenya @TrevorOmbija Climate change is a political issue that polluter must accept to take up the responsibility. The idea that you can emit carbon and counter it through supporting projects that absorbs your mess e.g tree planting is misguided. We must first stop the huge emissions.

[Carol Radull @CarolRadull]

Ferdinand Omanyala through to the Men's 100m Finals

#RadullKE